Why Users Leave Mobile Sites

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Now that 40% of Americans have a smartphone[i] every business should have a mobile-friendly website if they want to appeal to searchers on the go. But before implementing a mobile version, we offer a few important reminders for business owners and webmasters:

Users don’t tolerate long loading times. In most cases, users will leave your webpage if it takes more than 30 seconds to load. One way to avoid long loading time is to remove URL redirect links. URL redirect links are more noticeable on mobile devices as opposed to desktops, and mobile devices take longer to process each new webpage. To the user, the page appears blank after several seconds, which means they leave the page. Don’t make mobile users wait because they expect to retrieve information quickly.

Users don’t like content crowding either. Too much content on your mobile webpage makes it difficult for users to find information. Pages load quicker when you reduce the content. Also, always provide your users with the option of mobile website or standard website. If a user has the patience, they can use your standard website. However, if they are searching for specific information, they will use your mobile website.

Don’t use your standard site as your mobile site. It takes too long to load and users expect speed and efficiency. Although we know that mobile devices are small and take longer to load, users expect mobile searches to be parallel to desktop efficiency and speed.

Mobile users love shopping from their devices. “In just two years, the number of Americans saying they would use their mobile device to shop on Cyber Monday has nearly tripled from just 3.6 million (3.8%) in 2009 to 17.8 million (14.5%) in 2011. Even compared to figures from last year, the number of people using their mobile devices on Cyber Monday has more than doubled (2010 – 7.3 million and 6.9%).”[1]

Mobile searches are increasing, and you can’t miss out on these potential customers! If you need to use a redirect link, make sure you only use one. Mobile browsers are too small for all that your site has to offer, so make your mobile webpage appealing! Make mobile users want to view your standard webpage when they get home, or near a computer. Include important content and call-to-actions on your mobile webpage, and leave the rest of your content and URL redirects to the standard webpage. Customers expect speed; you must give it to them!